(1)The Secretary of State may give a direction to the Authority containing provision of a kind which he could make in respect of a best value authority—
(a)by order under section 4 of the Local Government Act 1999 (c. 27) (performance indicators and standards), or
(b)in guidance under section 5(6) of that Act (performance targets and plans of action).
(2)The Secretary of State shall publish a direction under this section.
(3)Before giving a direction the Secretary of State shall consult—
(a)the Authority, and
(b)any other person that he thinks appropriate.